To focus City Council time, we are recommending shifting the City Council calendar to eliminate the standing work session on the first Monday of the month. The shift will add a lighter work session, when needed, following the Regular City Council and Economic Development Authority Meetings on the second Monday of the month. There will be no change to the work session following the City Council Meetings on the fourth Monday of the month.

In reviewing the budget schedule, the work session planned for November 2 will need to remain. Also, the public information meeting on the budget, also known as the “Truth in Taxation” hearing on December 7 will continue as scheduled.

In addition, edits will need to be made to the City Council Handbook. The following language found in Chapter 10 regarding work sessions will also need to be modified. See the following recommended adjustment:

Work Sessions
Work sessions provide an opportunity for Council Members to discuss items that may be a future agenda item or for informational purposes. Several work sessions are held about the City’s budget prior to its finalization and levy at the end of the year. Work sessions are typically held following the Economic Development Authority meeting on the second Monday and the City Council Meeting on the fourth Monday. The agenda and related work session materials are posted on the city’s website the Wednesday prior to the work session. Work sessions are held in a less formal atmosphere, using a consensus building approach. No formal action can be taken during work sessions.